Scottish businesses face a £170 million shoplifting crisis, threatening their survival and safety.
Scotland: Shopkeepers are struggling with a £170 million shoplifting crisis. This surge is putting many businesses at risk.
Recent data shows that theft costs have nearly doubled since last year. Organized gangs and opportunistic thieves are causing chaos in stores.
Last year, there were about 170 violent incidents against shop workers every day. In total, nearly 4,000 violent attacks were reported.
Business owners say the Scottish Government’s £3 million plan to fight retail crime is not enough. They want more police presence to deter thieves.
Ewan MacDonald-Russell from the Scottish Retail Consortium highlighted the alarming rise in retail crime. He noted that theft costs retailers £170 million last year.
He mentioned that this situation leads to higher prices for customers. Retailers have to adjust to cover losses from theft.
MacDonald-Russell also pointed out that retail staff shouldn’t have to work in fear. He believes a stronger effort is needed to protect workers and customers.
The British Retail Consortium’s survey found retail violence increased by over 50%. Incidents of violence and abuse are now three times higher than in 2020.
In 2023/24, there were more than 2,000 incidents reported daily, including serious assaults and threats. This is a growing concern for the industry.
The Scottish Government has convicted 543 offenders since 2021, when new laws were introduced to protect shop workers. However, many feel the police response is lacking.
In 2023/24, theft reached an all-time high, costing retailers £2.2 billion. Organized crime is a significant factor, with gangs targeting multiple stores.
The UK Labour Government plans to address low-level theft and create a specific offense for assaulting retail workers. This aims to improve safety in stores.
Siobhian Brown, Scotland’s Minister for Victims and Community Safety, condemned violence against retail workers. She emphasized the need for reporting all crimes to the police.
